Aizawl: Mizoram’s ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) has pitched “clean governance” as its central plank for the Aizawl Municipal Corporation (AMC) elections, as campaigning intensified ahead of the April 21 polls.
The civic polls are seen as politically significant, with potential implications for the state’s electoral landscape ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections.
Stepping up its outreach, the ZPM on Wednesday conducted a series of street campaigns across Aizawl. Addressing rallies, Revenue Minister B. Lalchhanzova criticised the previous Mizo National Front (MNF)-led municipal administration, alleging that the AMC had been reduced to a “contract distribution centre” for political favourites.
He promised transparent financial management if the ZPM is voted to power, and said Ward Committees would be prioritised to implement development works in a lawful manner. “The municipal body should function as a platform where residents govern collectively, with full transparency in financial matters,” he said.
Forest Minister Lalthansanga also underscored the government’s emphasis on fiscal integrity, claiming that public confidence in taxation had improved under the current administration due to more transparent use of funds. He said taxes collected by the AMC would be utilised strictly for public benefit if the party forms the municipal body.
He further said the government, led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, had secured over Rs 700 crore in rebates by ensuring timely payment of power bills.
Finance and Planning Adviser to the Chief Minister and MLA TBC Lalvenchhunga pointed to what he described as a growing public trust in the government, citing instances where residents have voluntarily donated land for infrastructure projects without seeking compensation.
A total of 68 candidates, including 28 women, are contesting the AMC polls. The ZPM, MNF and Congress have fielded 19 candidates each, while the BJP has nominated 11 candidates. Counting of votes is scheduled for April 27.